Five Tips for Family Skiing in Tahoe

With snow falling constantly over the next week in the Sierra’s, it is going to be hard to resist a snowy holiday in the Lake Tahoe area.

We’re heading up to Northstar with our kids next week. After skiing at Dodge Ridge, I’m wondering if Northstar will feel a bit like a snow covered version of Disney Land. That said, with a strong kids program, ski in – ski out accommodations and lots of non-ski diversions, I’m sure it will be a hit with the family.

I’ve polled some friends regarding ski tips for Tahoe given we are relative novices and here is what we’ve heard.

1. Choose your resort carefully. Northstar and Squaw are known for their lessons, après ski and great slopes (Squaw being the more expert-oriented of the two). However, smaller resorts like Sugar Bowl and Tahoe Donner get high marks from families as well.

2. Plan equipment in advance. Consider bringing your own equipment or renting in advance especially on busy holiday weekends. The rental lines sound like they can be challenging. For the five and under set, I’ve heard a ski harness can be a good piece of equipment to bring along. Any Mountain is the favorite spot for rentals in the Bay Area.

3. Consider private or semi-private lessons for young, new skiers. I have yet to see a class of four or more five year olds be super successful.

4. Not all the fun is on the slopes. Especially with younger kids you may want to think about sledding, ice skating or just making snowmen. Places like Tahoe Donner are known for their sledding as well as skiing.

5. Compare pricing for kids at different resorts. Here is a sample
Tahoe Donner: ages 7-12 whole day $18, half day $12
Sugar Bowl: ages 6-12 whole day $20, half day $15
Squaw: 12 and under whole day $10, half day $10
Northstar: ages 5-12, whole day $30, half day $24 but second day free
Alpine: 5-12 whole day $15, half day $15

I’d love to hear your tips!